The event will start with a welcome to volunteers, sponsors and exhibitors and the reading of an Arbor Day Proclamation by the county executive or his representative, followed by a ceremonial tree planting.

Then the real fun begins! Participants will be planting a buffer consisting of approximately 500 seedlings along with 127 street trees approximately 4-6 feet in height.

"Urban trees beautify and enhance local communities and provide environmental benefits by filtering air, shading and cooling adjacent buildings and paved areas, and by absorbing stormwater runoff," explains Betsey Greene, a county planner and organizer of this year's event.

Volunteers are encouraged to bring work boots, gloves, a hammer for driving in tree shelter stakes and a shovel. In addition to the tree planting project, there will be displays by county and area environmental divisions, groups and organizations. There also will be demonstrations, plus a free tree seedling and free lunch for all volunteers.

If you or your organization is interested in helping with this event and would like further information or to register, contact Greene at 410-638-3103 or by e-mail at eagreene@harfordcountymd.gov.